The demand for the development of the Brahmani riverfront and the creation of the Greater Rourkela Metropolitan Area has gained fresh momentum, with two local outfits urging Raghunathpalli (RN Pali) BJP MLA Durga Charan Tanti to press the issues with the Odisha government.

Members of the Rourkela Bikas Manch (RBM) and Sachetan Nagarik Manch (SNM) met the MLA on Tuesday, submitting a written request to take up both proposals formally with the BJP-led state government.

RBM president Suman Dutta emphasized that the proposed Brahmani riverfront project could bring multiple benefits — from attracting tourists and promoting environmental sustainability to boosting the local economy and protecting the river from pollution. Currently, the river ghats between Vedvyas and Panposh are in a poor state due to indiscriminate garbage dumping, he noted.

Similarly, the proposal for the Greater Rourkela Metropolitan Area aims to integrate surrounding regions with the steel city to drive holistic development. If implemented, it could strengthen infrastructure, create new economic opportunities, and enhance the overall quality of life across the region.

MLA Tanti informed that he has already sent the proposals to the state government and would soon follow up with the appropriate authorities to expedite action on the demands.